September 2020Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
The SensoTech LiquiSonic is an inline analytical system for determining the concentration of binary liquids directly in the production process. The analyser is mostly used for phase separation and reaction monitoring in refineries, with sensor installation within the product stream, thus meaning an extremely fast measurement that responds immediately to process changes for optimum control.
Motor fuel alkylation using liquid hydrofluoric (HF) or sulphuric (H2SO4) acids is a catalytic process used in petroleum refinery operations. The purpose of the alkylation is to improve fuel properties to achieve higher octane for lower emissions which is an important process in petrochemical alkylation operations.
While the H2SO4 alkylation scores points with safety and environmental protection aspects, the HF alkylation typically shows efficient acid recycling. Olefins and the isoalkanes from raw oil resulting from fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) constitute the starting materials. Together with HF and/or H2SO4 as catalyst, high-grade alkylates are formed. Due to their high-octane rating, few aromatic compounds and comparably environmentally friendly properties, they are perfectly suitable for petrol blending from both an economic and an ecologic point of view.
The most important requirement for the alkylation system is error-free operation to prevent e.g. an ‘acid runaway’, which can occur when the acid strength goes below 85-87%. In this case the reactions between the olefins and the iso-butane turn into reactions of olefins only, producing polymers known as acid sludge, red oil or ASO (acid soluble oil). To prevent this, control of the acid, water and ASO quantity is of particular importance.
Traditional sampling is potentially very dangerous, time intensive and the results only arrive after some hours of laboratory testing. Here the LiquiSonic scores points with immediate inline analysis and data recording as well as increased system productivity and safety.
The robust LiquiSonic measuring technology has set benchmarks in 3-component analysis for years. Using select specialty materials, it effectively prevents corrosion, abrasion and drift, even under difficult conditions. The LiquiSonic immersion sensors can be easily installed directly into the pipeline and are ATEX-, IECEx- and FM-certified.
Possible installation locations include upstream and downstream of the acid separator, and at the alkylate outlet of the iso stripper. Despite difficult, corrosive process conditions, utilising materials such as Hastelloy C-276 or Monel, long-term system stability is possible.
DEKRA Industrial sets new standards for asset integrity in local petrochemical sector
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
DEKRA Industrial South Africa has strengthened its position as a leader in hydrogen-induced cracking inspections through a strategic combination of advanced non-destructive testing techniques, investment in state-of-the-art inspection equipment and global technical collaboration.
Read more...Ensuring clean and safe water Endress+Hauser South Africa
Editor's Choice Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
Endress+Hauser’s comprehensive range of disinfection sensors is designed to monitor and control disinfectant levels in water treatment processes.
Read more...High-precision measurement of insulating gases WIKA Instruments
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
WIKA has launched the next generation of its GA11 gas analyser. It enables switchgear operators, manufacturers and maintenance companies to record the quality of SF6 gas and alternative insulating gases.
Read more...Say goodbye to missed contamination with real-time colour monitoring
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
Applied Analytics offers seamless and rapid colour monitoring in processes with an industry-proven analyser that quickly and accurately monitors colour in your sample stream for impurities and inconsistencies.
Read more...Metrology laboratory is the heart of data-driven production consistency
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
Pressing and welding have been at the core of Tier 1 automotive supplier, Malben Engineering for 50 years; but it is the company’s investment in its state-of-the-art metrology laboratory which has set it apart.
Read more...Unlocking precision: The future of inline concentration measurement
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
[Sponsored] In today’s resource-conscious industrial world, manufacturers are under growing pressure to optimise productivity, ensure consistent product quality and minimise waste. One of the most effective levers for achieving these goals lies in mastering concentration measurement, and Anton Paar is redefining how it is done.
Read more...High-precision measurement of insulating gases WIKA Instruments
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
WIKA has launched the next generation of its GA11 gas analyser. It enables switchgear operators, manufacturers and maintenance companies to record the quality of SF6 gas and alternative insulating gases.
Read more...Smart sensors for cleaner, safer food and beverage processes Instek Control
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
Instek Control specialises in advanced measurement solutions tailored for the food, beverage, pharmaceutical and mining industries. Among the company’s offerings are advanced process sensors from Anderson-Negele, as well as ALVIM biofilm monitoring technology.
Read more...Elevating mining separation processes through precision instrumentation Endress+Hauser South Africa
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
In mining operations, the quest for efficiency and productivity is key. There is an urgent need for innovative solutions to enhance the performance of extraction processes while balancing operational costs and environmental impact.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version